Charges laid in drug trafficking investigation; firearm seized

Lethbridge Police have charged two males with drug trafficking offences and seized a shotgun following a short-term investigation.

Earlier this month, members of the Crime Suppression Team initiated an investigation after receiving information about suspicious activity at a westside residence. During the investigation police observed activity consistent with drug trafficking at a home along the 700 block of Columbia Boulevard West and a second residence along the 200 block of St. James Boulevard North.

On December 11, search warrants were obtained and executed at both locations. A male subject associated to the residences was arrested without incident during a targeted traffic stop and found in possession of just over $1,700. 

During the first search at the northside property, three males were arrested without incident and police seized a 12 gauge shotgun, nearly two ounces of cocaine and drug paraphernalia. At the westside home, police seized just over $8,900 in cash.

Santino Tong Mawien, 35, of Calgary, is charged with two counts of possession of a controlled substance for the purpose of trafficking, possession of the proceeds of crime and unlawful possession of a firearm. Mawien is currently in custody awaiting a Judicial Interim Release hearing.

Joseph Kual, 35, of Calgary, is charged with two counts of possession of a controlled substance for the purpose of trafficking. Kual was released from custody and is scheduled to appear in court January 22, 2026.

Two other males were released without charges.